President Lee Jae-myung said Thursday that the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, set to be held in Busan this July, will serve as "an important opportunity to showcase Korea's advanced cultural capabilities and global leadership on the world stage."
"Bear in mind the heavy responsibility that the national standing of the Republic of Korea is at stake, and devote your full efforts to preparations during the remaining period," Lee said.
The World Heritage Committee is the largest international conference in the world heritage field. It will be held in Korea for the first time in 38 years since the country joined the World Heritage Convention in 1988.
In his opening remarks at a briefing on preparations for the 48th UNESCO World Heritage Committee held at BEXCO in Busan that day, Lee said, "The driving force of K-culture, which leads global culture, is K-heritage."
"Korea must take the lead in international solidarity and cooperation to fully protect humanity's common heritage amid the climate crisis, geopolitical risks and the whirlwind of development," he stressed.
"As this is the first committee meeting to be held domestically, thorough and meticulous preparation is needed for a successful event," Lee said. "Thorough preparation in all areas including transportation, accommodation and security is absolutely necessary so that delegations and experts from 196 countries do not experience any inconvenience."
He added, "Related agencies must cooperate as one team. We must establish a field-centered response system that closely responds to any unexpected situations."
Lee particularly emphasized that "the hosting of the committee should lead to regional economic vitality."
"I hope that attractive cultural events and linked tourism programs will be carefully planned in advance, so that Busan or nearby regions will be bustling with foreign tourists on this occasion," he added.
